SYNONYMS
Chromic chloride, chromium chloride hexahydrate.
CHARACTERISTICS
Dark green deliquescent crystals.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Chromium chloride is incompatible with moisture and oxidising
agents. Heating produces toxic fumes of chlorine.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is a severe irritant through all routes of
exposure and is toxic. It can be absorbed through the skin in
doses large enough to cause toxicity. High concentrations are
extremely destructive to tissues of the mucous membranes and
upper respiratory tract, eyes and skin. Symptoms of exposure may
include burning sensation, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis,
shortness of breath, headache, nausea, and vomiting. It may
cause allergic skin reactions in some individuals.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Use a fume hood, very toxic.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from heat.
Keep away from moisture.
Keep the container tightly closed.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Use a fume hood to keep the level of exposure below the
recommended threshold limit, i.e. 0.5 mg/m3 OHSA. If
the level of exposure is expected to exceed this limit then a
respirator is recommended. Wear protective clothing. A long
sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles
and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ remove contaminated clothing and immediately wash the
affected area with large amounts of water until all evidence of
the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If
irritation persists or an allergic reaction develops seek
immediate medical attention. Wash contaminated clothing before
re­use.
Eyes ­ immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 15 minutes). If irritation persists seek
immediate medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration. Keep warm and
allow to rest. Seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash the mouth thoroughly with water and then give
water to drink. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back
of the throat. Seek immediate medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry atmosphere
away from moisture, heat and incompatible chemicals.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, safety glasses and laboratory coat.
SPILLS:
Solid - collect in a beaker, dissolve in a large amount of
water. Add soda ash, mix and neutralise with 6M hydrochloric
acid and discharge to sewer with large excess of water.
Solution - cover with soda ash, mix and scoop into a beaker of
water. Neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid and discharge to
sewer with a large excess of water. If a spill contains a
fluoride, add slaked lime in addition to the above treatment.
PACKAGE LOTS:
Add slowly to a large container of water. Stir in a slight
excess of soda ash. If fluoride is present add slaked lime. Let
stand for 24 hours. Decant or siphon into another container and
neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid. Discharge to sewer with a
large excess of water. The sludge may be added to land fill.
ENVIRONMENT